Public Information Assistant jobs at UN (United Nations), New York, United States of America

Roles and responsibilities

In particular, the Public Information Assistant will be performing the following functions

• Provides general office support; respond to complex information requests and inquiries; sets up and maintains files/records, organizes meetings, monitors deadlines, etc.
• Coordinates administrative services, including preparing, monitoring and processing various requisitions, service contracts and payment vouchers, coordinating special assignments and related travel authorizations, etc.
• Support the Unit with research development, production, and distribution of outreach materials, products, and services.
• Acts as “Webmaster” for the E-MINE (www.mineaction.org) website including drafting, editing and updating content; assisting on design questions; adapting and developing internet applications, and also monitoring statistics.
• Develop, manage, update, secure, maintain, and ensure the integrity of the copyright of the UNMAS audio-visual archive.
• Similarly, serves as a photographic assistant by producing digital imaging and photo prints, and serving as back-up UNMAS photographer.
• Support, promote and assist the maintenance of UNMAS social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) through developing, researching, fact-checking and incorporating graphics/ photographs, etc.
• Coordinates media coverage of important events; liaises with news agencies, public relations firms, United Nations media, etc. to provide advance notice of, and information on, upcoming meetings, briefings, and special events; coordinates technical arrangements and organizes and allocates space for visiting news, photo, TV and film personnel; evaluates as well as processes applications for UN security clearances/accreditation.

Additional duties

• Participates in the planning and coordination of major events such as the commemoration of the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action; liaises with relevant departments/agencies; drafts and edits reports, production schedules, invitations, press releases and related texts, and correspondence related to the planning of events including exhibits, panel discussions, press conferences, and receptions.
• Using relevant computer software creates designs in the appropriate format for promotional and other material, e.g. brochures, presentation materials, announcements, etc.; ensures that photos, graphics, etc. are appropriate and also conform to UN standards for print materials.
• Ensures availability and appropriate packaging of products for distribution at special events, exhibits, conferences, media functions, etc.
• Identifies and also prepares new material for inclusion inappropriate web pages by: researching various information sources for relevant material and cross-checking information with author offices as required; retrieving and downloading pertinent documentation and other information in requisite programming languages for Web format or inserting into the database after determining appropriate categorization.
• Also, preparing new pages, incorporating graphics as needed; posting documents on the UN web and/or development servers and ensuring the appropriate directory location; checking and testing for multiple browser support, etc.
• Monitors spending of the budget allocated to the Unit as well as provides guidance/training to new staff and interns.
• Furthermore, performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent. In addition to that, a minimum of five years of experience in public communication, international broadcasting or related area.
• Experience with social media and digital communication platforms is desirable. Similarly, experience with ERP systems such as Umoja is desirable.
• Strong proficiency in the English language.